GUT test protocol for textile floor coverings

The GUT-Test Protocol

But the most important principle is the avoidance of undesirable substances already during the production process.

For a variety of chemicals, there is a ban on the use or the content of these substances in the raw materials is limited.

This approach follows a simple but effective principle:

........ the precautionary principle.

The list of these substances is constantly updated and adapted to the latest findings. The list of so-called SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern) under REACH is taken into account, of course.

Test on Hazardous substances

by classical chemical analysis method, both the raw materials and also the textile floor covering itself are tested. This includes heavy metals, plasticizers, biocides and pesticides, the classical POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutants) and the REACH SVHC.

Volatile organic components (so-called VOCs) that can be emitted from a new floor covering into to the indoor air can be determined with the aid of the test chamber method. The test is performed according to current standards and the evaluation of the results corresponds to the currently latest German (AgBB) and French (AFSSET) systems for the evaluation of building materials in indoor environments.

Even if all VOC limits are respected and the tested carpet is classified as "very low emitting", traces of various substances might cause, unpleasant odors. Therfor the sensory odor testing finally complets, the product testing by GUT.